Chapter 14: China Limitless Ambition Part 3
A thousand years ago, the Empire of Mu began its ascent to power. Nestled in the heart of the Mu continent, this nascent empire was driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a fervent belief in the potential of mechanization. While magic held sway over much of Novus Orbis, Mu's leaders chose a different path, one that relied on steam, steel, and the ingenuity of its people.
As Mu's mechanical prowess grew, so did its ambitions. The empire expanded, its influence stretching across the continent. This rise did not go unnoticed. To the east, the Holy Milishial Empire, a bastion of magical might and the greatest superpower of the world, watched with a wary eye. Milishial's rulers, recognizing the threat posed by a technologically advanced Mu, devised a plan to curtail its burgeoning power.
In the western reaches of the Mu continent lay a fractured region, home to 106 disparate nation-states. These kingdoms, principalities, and city-states were often at odds, their energies spent on petty squabbles and territorial disputes. But where others saw chaos, the Milishial Empire saw opportunity.
Milishial began to secretly fund and support the Leiforian Unification Movement, a coalition of visionaries who dreamt of a united western Mu. With resources and guidance from Milishial, this movement gained momentum. Over decades, through diplomacy, subterfuge, and occasional conflict, the disparate states were brought together under a single banner. Thus, the Confederation of the Kingdom of Leifor was born.
The creation of Leifor served Milishial's purposes well. A unified Leifor acted as a buffer, containing Mu's influence and providing a counterweight to its power. For centuries, this delicate balance held, with Mu and Leifor locked in a tense equilibrium.
Two hundred years ago, this balance was shattered. The Empire of Mu, long a symbol of mechanical innovation and progress, was torn apart by civil war. The causes were manifold: economic strife, political corruption, and the growing discontent of a populace yearning for change. As factions vied for control, the empire splintered, its territories fracturing under the strain.
From the ashes of this civil war emerged the Federation of the Commune of Mu. Unlike its imperial predecessor, the Commune was built on principles of collective governance and shared prosperity. The old aristocracy was swept away, replaced by a new order that prized the contributions of every citizen. But this rebirth came at a cost. In the chaos of the civil war, Mu lost a third of its territory to the opportunistic Leiforian Confederation.
For centuries, the people of Mu nursed the wounds of their territorial losses, their resolve hardening with each passing year. Fifty years ago, the Federation of the Commune of Mu launched a bold campaign to reclaim its lost lands. This invasion was a testament to the Commune's resurgence, its armies and war machines pushing deep into Leiforian territory.
The conflict was brutal and swift. Leifor, though weakened, fought valiantly, its people rallying to defend their homeland. But the might of Mu proved overwhelming. Victory after victory brought Mu closer to its goal, and soon, the once-lost territories were back under its control.
As Mu's forces stood on the brink of total victory, the Holy Milishial Empire intervened. The Holy Milishial Empire, ever the guardian of balance, could not allow Mu to grow unchecked. Through a combination of diplomatic pressure and military posturing, Milishial forced Mu to halt its advance. Leifor, though spared from annexation, was left to bear the heavy burden of defeat.
The terms imposed on Leifor Confederation were harsh. Reparations drained its coffers, and territorial concessions further weakened its position. Yet, the Confederation endured, its people steeling themselves for the challenges ahead. For Mu, the victory solidified its status as the second strongest nation on Novus Orbis, a testament to its resilience and determination.
Vinfast Island, The Holy Milishial Empire Day 15 Month 1st Year 10641 Central Calendar.
The first rays of dawn pierced the sky, casting long shadows over Vinfast Island. Nestled in the heart of the remote archipelago, this facility was a beacon of the Holy Milishial Empire's military innovation—a symbol of their technological might, an outpost where the boundaries of magic and engineering were constantly pushed. Today, the island would bear witness to an unprecedented event: the test flight of the Vaemon-4 Interceptor, a craft that was destined to revolutionize air superiority and set a new standard in military aviation.
On the observation deck of the sprawling research complex, Director Howard Skyrider stood tall, his gaze focused on the runway below, where the aircraft gleamed in the early morning light. Around him were some of the brightest minds in magical engineering, all awaiting the moment they had spent years working toward.
"Director Skyrider, the Vaemon-4 is prepped and ready for takeoff," Professor Elara Windrider reported, her voice steady but filled with barely contained excitement. A towering figure in magical propulsion systems, Elara wore a sleek, form-fitting blue suit, glowing faintly with the arcane energy that pulsed through its fabric. The runes stitched into the material were constantly shifting, attuned to her body's movements.
"Good," Howard responded, his voice calm but sharp. His uniform was pristine, adorned with various medals and insignia, reflecting his experience and the years spent in service to the Empire. His eyes, as piercing as ever, tracked the aircraft on the runway below, knowing that this test was more than just a demonstration of new technology—it was a strategic milestone for the Holy Milishial Empire.
The Vaemon-4 was no mere aircraft. It was the culmination of decades of research, combining cutting-edge magical energy systems with advancements in rocket propulsion and aerodynamics. It surpassed its predecessor, the Vaemon-2, in nearly every regard. The Vaemon-4 was not just a fighter—it was a weapon of unparalleled speed and power.
"Let's go over the specifications one more time, for the record," Howard said, addressing the gathered team of experts.
"Of course, Director," Professor Windrider responded, stepping forward with her data tablet. "The Vaemon-4 is equipped with two Magic-Enchanted XLR201 Super Rocket Engines, each producing a staggering 100,000 pounds-force of thrust, nearly double that of the Vaemon-2's 57,000 pounds-force. The engines are powered by a new generation of high-purity Magic-infused Crystallium—a rare and potent gem that allows for both vastly enhanced fuel efficiency and energy production."
Elara continued, her voice steady but filled with a note of awe, "These engines give the Vaemon-4 a top speed of 7,000 kilometers per hour, nearly three times the speed of the J-31, China's most advanced fighter jet. This allows the Vaemon-4 to reach speeds that are close to hypersonic, placing it well beyond the reach of most current air defense systems."
Howard's eyes gleamed with pride. "That kind of speed is incredible. What about its altitude capabilities?"
Professor Windrider's smile widened. "The Vaemon-4 can reach altitudes well beyond 300,000 feet—close to the edge of space itself. Our pilots will be classified as astronauts under our military's definitions, allowing them to engage in operations far above the operational ceiling of most other aircraft."
"And what's its operational range?" Howard pressed, clearly eager to understand the full capabilities of the aircraft.
"With the new engine configuration and the upgraded fuel system, the Vaemon-4 can operate over an astounding range of 60,000 kilometers—nearly three times the distance of the Vaemon-2. This makes it ideal for deep penetration missions, far beyond enemy airspace, and high-speed intercepts against enemy aircraft and orbital threats."
"Impressive," Howard murmured, nodding approvingly. "What are its limitations? No aircraft is perfect."
Elara's expression shifted slightly, her tone growing more analytical. "The Vaemon-4 is fast and high-flying, but like all high-performance aircraft, it sacrifices maneuverability in exchange for raw speed and altitude. It cannot engage in close-quarters dogfights like the Aegon-5 or other agile fighters. Its role is strictly that of an interceptor, designed to engage high-altitude threats and neutralize them before they can pose a danger."
Captain Marcus Thalor, a veteran test pilot, added his thoughts. "The trade-off for speed is significant. We can outrun or outclimb most threats, but we cannot match their agility in tight turns or evasive maneuvers. The Vaemon-4 excels at intercepting long-range missiles, high-speed aircraft, and other high-altitude threats, but we must avoid close dogfights."
Howard nodded thoughtfully. "It's clear that the Vaemon-4 has been designed with a specific purpose in mind—superiority in intercepting and neutralizing high-speed threats. I want to see its true capabilities today."
Before he could continue, an alarm sounded, interrupting the conversation. The massive holographic display in the control center flickered to life, showing two high-altitude objects entering Vinfast Island's airspace.
"Director, we have two unidentified objects approaching our airspace," reported Lieutenant Aric Norwind, his fingers working swiftly over the console. "They appear to be high-altitude weather balloons, likely launched from the People's Republic of China."
Vice Admiral Callan, who had been silently observing from the corner, looked up with a frown. "Spy equipment, no doubt. They're flying at an altitude of 27,000 meters, which is above the service ceiling of our Aegon-5 fighters. But the 155mm Anti-Aircraft Light Magic Guns can reach up to 240 kilometers, well within range to destroy these balloons. However, this might be a great opportunity to see how the Vaemon-4 performs in an actual engagement."
Captain Thalor, always eager for a challenge, spoke up, his voice tinged with excitement. "Director, this could be the perfect chance to test the Vaemon-4 in real combat conditions. With its speed and range, we can intercept those targets before they get anywhere near our sensitive installations."
Howard glanced at the screens, then at Thalor. "You're right, Captain. Let's put the Vaemon-4 to the test."
XXXXXXXXXXXX
"Director, the Vaemon-4 is ready for takeoff," Professor Elara Windrider, the chief engineer of the project, said as she stood beside him, her voice almost reverent. She was dressed in a form-fitting suit of shimmering blue fabric, its intricate runes pulsating with latent magical power.
Howard nodded. "Let's see what it can do."
"Vaemon-4, you are cleared for takeoff," came the crisp voice of Lieutenant Aric Norwind from the control tower. "Good luck, Captain Starkv."
Captain Anakin Starkv, a young and highly skilled pilot known for his calm under pressure and unrivaled precision, nodded confidently as he climbed into the cockpit of the Vaemon-4. The canopy closed around him with a soft hiss, and the display screens flickered to life, showing real-time data on the aircraft's performance, as well as the positions of enemy targets. The engines hummed with a low, powerful resonance as they powered up, and the control surfaces on the wings shifted slightly in response to his touch.
The control systems in the Vaemon-4 were intuitively linked to Starkv's neural interface, giving him near-instantaneous feedback from the aircraft, making it feel as if he were one with the machine. His gloved hand gripped the throttle as he prepared for takeoff, feeling the hum of power reverberate through his body.
"Vaemon-4, you're cleared for takeoff," Lieutenant Norwind repeated.
Anakin advanced the throttle, and the Vaemon-4 shot forward, its engines roaring to life as the aircraft rapidly gained speed. The runway was a blur beneath him as the Vaemon-4 quickly reached liftoff velocity. In a matter of seconds, the sleek craft was soaring upward, climbing at a blistering rate of 80,000 feet per minute, tearing through the lower atmosphere with ease. Anakin's breath steadied as the G-forces pressed him back into his seat.
Within moments, the Vaemon-4 reached 27,000 meters—above the altitude of the approaching Chinese reconnaissance balloons. The aircraft slowed slightly as Anakin prepared for the intercept. He checked the display. Two weather balloons, their weak magical signatures flickering faintly in the air, were now clearly within his sight. Their slow, drifting motion made them an easy target, but they were moving at a steady pace, meaning they could be part of a larger surveillance operation.
Anakin throttled forward again, bringing the Vaemon-4 into a sharp dive. The aircraft cut through the sky like a spear, the air pressure around him increasing as the aircraft pushed past Mach 6. In a matter of seconds, the first balloon was in his sights. He lined up the shot, his hands steady as he prepared to unleash the aircraft's devastating power.
"Weapon systems ready," he muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing.
The Vaemon-4's forward-mounted 40mm magic-enchanted autocannon charged up with a low hum, its barrel glowing faintly. The rounds were powered by high-density magical crystals that could deliver explosive, high-impact projectiles with pinpoint accuracy. The magic-infused projectiles not only carried explosive force but also destabilized the magical enchantments of any object they struck, ensuring total destruction.
Anakin squeezed the trigger.
The roar of the autocannon was deafening as a burst of magical rounds shot forward, streaking through the air. Each round struck the first balloon with deadly precision, tearing through its fabric and causing it to rupture violently. An explosion of magical energy erupted as the balloon disintegrated into a cloud of shimmering blue fragments, the magic reacting with the air in a burst of light. The balloon's remains fell rapidly toward the ocean below, like scattered debris.
"Target one neutralized," Anakin reported, his voice steady as ever. His hands gripped the controls as he banked the Vaemon-4 into a sharp turn, bringing it toward the second balloon.
The second balloon, seemingly unaware of its impending demise, drifted slowly in the air. Anakin accelerated again, pushing the Vaemon-4 to its maximum speed. He closed the distance between himself and the target in seconds, the world blurring around him as the aircraft sliced through the atmosphere. At 7,000 kilometers per hour, the wind pressure was immense, but Anakin had trained for this. His neural interface with the aircraft's systems allowed him to react faster than any human pilot.
This time, he employed the Vaemon-4's advanced magic missile system. The missiles, housed in sleek pods along the wings, were designed to track targets at incredible distances and speeds. Anakin selected the closest missile pod and locked on to the second balloon. The system hummed as it calculated the perfect launch trajectory.
"Missile system locked."
Anakin fired.
The missile shot out of the pod like a streak of light, guided by magical energy. It spiraled toward the balloon with pinpoint accuracy, leaving a trail of glowing afterburn in its wake. Upon contact, the missile exploded with an immense burst of force. The magical warhead detonated, sending shockwaves through the surrounding air. The second balloon disintegrated in a violent flash of blue energy, its remnants falling toward the ocean below.
"Both targets destroyed," Anakin reported again, his voice calm but with a touch of satisfaction.
He began his descent back to the airbase, his mind already running over the sequence of events. The Vaemon-4 had exceeded his expectations. Its speed, precision, and firepower were unmatched. Yet, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to be done. The test had gone flawlessly, but this was only the beginning. The Vaemon-4 was built for much more than just intercepting weather balloons.
As he approached the runway, the glow of the control tower's lights illuminated the aircraft. The Vaemon-4's engines slowed as Anakin prepared for landing, the massive craft beginning to descend smoothly through the atmosphere. The wings of the interceptor glowed faintly as they adjusted for aerodynamic stability.
He touched down gently, the Vaemon-4's landing gear absorbing the shock with a soft bounce. The aircraft rolled to a stop, its engines powering down with a hum. Anakin exhaled deeply, pulling his helmet off as he slid out of the cockpit.
"Mission complete, Director," he reported to Howard Skyrider, who was standing on the observation deck, his hands clasped behind his back.
Howard Skyrider's face was unreadable, but his eyes gleamed with approval. "Well done, Captain. The Vaemon-4 performed exactly as expected. Let's head to the debrief."
As Anakin entered the debriefing room, Professor Windrider, Captain Thalor, and Dr. Lydia Arcturus were already gathered around the table. The atmosphere was charged with energy, each person eager to dissect the performance of the new interceptor.
"The Vaemon-4 is a game-changer," Howard said, his voice firm. "Anakin, walk us through your experience."
Anakin nodded, sitting down. "The aircraft handled beautifully. Its speed and acceleration were unlike anything I've flown before. The missile systems are incredibly effective at long-range engagements, and the autocannons are precise and powerful. There was no issue with stability at high speeds, even when I exceeded Mach 6."
Professor Windrider leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "And the weapon systems? Were they as effective as we anticipated?"
"Yes," Anakin replied, "the magic missiles worked flawlessly. The enchantment provided a high level of targeting precision, and the blast radius was more than sufficient to neutralize the targets. I didn't notice any lag in the missile's tracking system, even when engaging at high speeds."
Dr. Arcturus smiled, a spark of pride in her eyes. "Good. We'll need to refine the missile guidance system further, but it's a solid start."
Howard stood up, his gaze sweeping over the room. "The Vaemon-4 is ready for operational deployment. But we cannot rest on our laurels. There's still much work to be done—especially in preparing for more complex threats. We'll move forward with further testing and continue to refine its capabilities. For now, though, we've proven that we have the edge in the skies."
The team nodded, their faces alight with determination and excitement. The Vaemon-4 was just the beginning of the Empire's new aerial dominance.
Central Calendar Day 16, Month 1, Year 10641 - Yloria, Leiforian Confederation.
The sky above the southwestern coast of Leifor was painted in shades of orange and crimson as the setting sun began its descent behind the distant mountains. From the heights of the Windholm Airport, the city of Yloria stretched out below, a vibrant metropolis known not only for its economic power but also for its busy port and strategic importance. Its skyline was marked by the silhouettes of wyverns – enormous, winged creatures with leathery scales – flying toward their designated landing zones near the airport. The wyverns' elegant wings cut through the evening sky with practiced precision, each bearing a member of the foreign delegation that had been making its way toward Yloria for the past several days.
The journey had been taxing, as the wyverns' range was not infinite, and the delegation had to switch mounts several times during their passage through the uninhabited islands scattered across the eastern seas. The small emergency runways located on these isolated patches of land offered brief respites for weary travelers, but the flight itself was long and grueling. The smell of saltwater clung to their clothes, their faces and skin reddened from the relentless wind, and their bodies ached from the days spent in constant motion. For Lord Viri, Inertia's top diplomat, it had been a trying few days, but his determination to secure a future for his kingdom kept him pushing forward.
The delegation of Inertia, including Prince Aethes and several minor nobles, had endured the same hardships. Their wyverns finally descended toward Windholm Airport, their massive bodies casting fleeting shadows across the runway as the beasts landed with impressive ease. Despite the exhaustion that weighed heavily on him, Lord Viri felt a brief flicker of hope as his mount touched down. This was the first step toward securing an alliance, one that was critical to the survival of his nation.
"We will soon arrive at the wyvern-exclusive airport," a voice over the manacomm – a communication device used for long-range travel – crackled, breaking Viri's reverie.
"Very well," Viri muttered to himself, straightening in his saddle. He glanced at his subordinates, their eyes weary but determined. They all had a role to play in this delicate diplomatic mission, and the stakes were higher than ever. Inertia was on the verge of collapse, its enemies closing in from all sides, and this visit to Yloria might be their last chance to turn the tide in their favor.
As the wyverns came to a stop, Viri dismounted with a grunt, his legs stiff from the long ride. He was met by Gallat, the Irnetian Ambassador to Leifor, who had arranged their journey and managed their appointments with meticulous care.
"Welcome to Leifor, Lord Viri! You must be exhausted from your journey. I've secured an appointment for you with the Chief of the Foreign Affairs Section the day after tomorrow. For now, let's get you to your lodgings," Gallat said, his voice warm and sincere.
Viri nodded, grateful for Gallat's assistance. The ambassador had been invaluable in securing this meeting. "Thank you, Gallat. It is reassuring to know that our appointment has been arranged so quickly. We must begin preparations for the terms of our proposal immediately."
"Indeed," Gallat agreed, a hint of respect in his voice as he glanced toward the rest of the delegation. "Your people are already eager to assist in any way they can. Rest tonight, Lord Viri. Tomorrow will be a busy day."
Viri turned to his companions, who were gathering their belongings and exchanging quiet words with each other. "Your efforts are already paying off," he said to them. "Rest well tonight. We will need to be at our best for the negotiations ahead."
The group followed Gallat toward the transport waiting for them. It was a curious vehicle, unlike any that Viri had seen in Leifor. It was large and boxy, with metal frames and tinted windows. Nall, one of Viri's subordinates, looked at it with suspicion. "What is this vehicle? Is this something from the Commune of Mu?" he asked.
Gallat gave a knowing smile. "No, this is not from Mu, though it may appear similar to their designs. This is from a different place altogether."
Inside the vehicle, they were greeted by the driver, a middle-aged man with a polite demeanor who bowed deeply. "Esteemed guests from the Kingdom of Irnetia, thank you for choosing to stay at the Dhoni. My name is Ikeda, and I will be your driver for the duration of this trip. The next stop is your lodgings."
The delegation exchanged looks of mild confusion, but no one spoke. There was something strange about the vehicle. It was unlike anything they had encountered in their own lands, and the sudden, high-pitched beep of the door closing only added to the sense of unease. The vehicle began its journey with a smoothness that took everyone by surprise. There was no noticeable rumbling, no jarring motion, as though the entire thing was gliding along the road with effortless grace. The passengers leaned back into the cushioned seats, amazed by the comfort and stability of the ride.
Viri could feel his exhaustion melting away with every passing moment. It was unlike any ride he had ever experienced in Leifor, and for a moment, he allowed himself to relax and enjoy the comfort. "Could it be possible that the Commune of Mu has advanced so far in such a short time?" he wondered aloud, his mind still wrestling with the unfamiliar design of the vehicle.
"Forgive me, Lord Viri," Ikeda's voice interrupted his musings. "This vehicle is not from Mu."
Viri's brow furrowed. "If not from Mu, then from where?" he pressed, turning to face the driver.
"It is from China," Ikeda replied.
The shock of the revelation hit Viri and his subordinates like a sudden wave. Their enemy, China, had developed such advanced technology? How was this possible? The bus – for that was the only way to describe the vehicle, despite its peculiar design – was a marvel of engineering, with smooth lines and an impressive interior. But its association with China made it immediately unacceptable to Viri and his men.
A murmur of dismay rippled through the group as Viri's face darkened. "China?" he repeated, his voice strained with disbelief.
"We cannot be seen traveling in such a vehicle," Viri declared, his tone clipped. Without hesitation, he motioned for his men to disembark, and the group hastily exited the bus, their steps quick as they moved away from the vehicle.
Gallat, who had been walking ahead, turned around in surprise at the sudden change in direction. "Lord Viri, what has happened?"
"China," Viri spat. "We cannot allow ourselves to be associated with their technology."
Gallat, understanding the gravity of the situation, immediately arranged for an alternative form of transportation. As if by design, a sleek vehicle approached from the distance, gliding toward them with quiet elegance. It was a levitation car, hovering smoothly above the ground, its design polished and sophisticated. The vehicle gleamed under the city lights, its surface smooth and without a single imperfection. The delicate, ethereal hum of magic filled the air, confirming what Viri had suspected: the Holy Milishial Empire had provided them with this mode of transport.
As the vehicle came to a halt before the group, a door opened to reveal a driver. He was an elf, his features sharp and regal, his manner almost imperious. His attire spoke of wealth and power, and his gaze, while respectful, carried the cold arrogance that Viri had come to associate with the Milishial elite.
"Welcome, esteemed guests from Inertia," the elf said, his tone icy yet formal. "I trust you will find this vehicle to your liking. It is superior to any transport from your homeland, I assure you."
Viri's jaw clenched, but he managed to keep his tone polite. "Thank you," he replied curtly. "Let us be on our way."
As they boarded the levitation car, Viri couldn't help but compare the two vehicles. The Chinese bus, manufactured by Shenglong Industries, grounded and practical, was a marvel of scientific and mechanical engineering. Its smooth ride and cutting-edge comfort made it clear that the Chinese had advanced their technology far beyond what Viri had anticipated. Yet, its association with their enemy was too much of a stain to allow it to pass without condemnation.
In contrast, the Milishial levitation car, crafted by Aetheric Mechanics Inc., was a symbol of magical mastery, a testament to the Holy Empire's sophisticated use of arcane forces to create a seamless and elegant mode of transport. It was sleek, polished, and silent, its very presence imbued with a sense of superiority. The elf driver's condescending attitude, however, made it difficult for Viri to fully appreciate the technological wonder before him. The Milishial pride was an ever-present weight, pressing down on them as they traveled through the city.
"Is this what they call Milishial hospitality?" Viri muttered under his breath, drawing a few quiet chuckles from his subordinates.
"Stay focused," he reminded them, his voice steady and resolute. "We have no time for distractions. Our kingdom's future depends on the alliances we forge here. We must navigate these treacherous waters with careful diplomacy."
The car glided smoothly through the streets of Yloria, passing tall buildings and bustling marketplaces. The city was alive, its heart beating in the rhythm of commerce and trade. But for Viri, there was no time to admire the city's beauty. His mind was focused on the mission at hand. The future of Inertia depended on their success.
As they arrived at their lodgings, Viri stepped out of the car and took one last look at the city. The towering structures, the vibrant lights, the foreignness of it all... It was a world far removed from the one he had known. Would they find the allies they so desperately needed? Would the negotiations prove fruitful?
He could only hope that their presence in Leifor would be the first step toward securing their place in this world of shifting allegiances and looming threats.
"Tomorrow begins our battle," Viri muttered to himself as he entered the building, the weight of the world pressing on his shoulders.
It was not just diplomacy that awaited them. It was survival.
Office of International Affairs for Outside the Civilized Areas, Mykal, The Commune of Mu
The journey from Yloria to Mykal, spanning almost 10,000 kilometers, had been surprisingly pleasant for Viri and his delegation. The Commune of Mu's advanced double-deck train system had made the week-long trip comfortable. Now, standing before an imposing 80-story building that housed Mu's foreign affairs ministry, the Irnetian diplomats felt both awed and intimidated.
"Wha… It's so gigantic!" gasped Nall, the youngest member of the delegation.
"So this is what it means to face a mechanical superpower…! How promising!" Aethes, the seasoned diplomat, marveled at the sight.
Viri, the head of the delegation, steadied himself, "We've got to go home with an alliance in hand—whatever it takes."
The grandeur of the building reminded them of the stakes. They were here to negotiate with one of the five superpowers, and they must not underestimate the task ahead. With renewed determination, the Irnetians entered the building.
The interior of the building was no less impressive, with its mechanical design and bustling activity. They were soon greeted by a young man who introduced himself as Pagua.
"The meeting between the Commune of Mu and the Kingdom of Irnetia will now commence. I, Pagua, will be in charge of this meeting."
"Now, these gentlemen to my side are Section Chief Gandolf and Subsection Head Jules."
"Greetings," Gandolf said, his tone firm yet welcoming.
After the brief exchange of greetings, the meeting began. On Mu's side, the presence of high-ranking officials indicated the seriousness with which they viewed the Irnetians' plight. Viri felt a mix of relief and anxiety; their situation was dire, and the outcome of this meeting could determine their kingdom's fate.
Gandolf spoke first, his voice resonant with authority. "You coming all this way is an act worthy of praise. For your kingdom to have sent its top diplomat, together with His Highness, the Prince, I can already surmise that what you have for us is incredibly important, hence why a section chief like me is in attendance. Now, let us hear it."
Viri cleared his throat, feeling the weight of his people's hopes on his shoulders. "I'm truly grateful that you've decided to hear us out. Indeed, we've come here for the reason Sir Gandolf has surmised. Let me explain: a few weeks ago, a warship from the People's Republic of China came to our kingdom. Onboard were diplomats who presented us with a 'deal.'"
He handed over the papers Xiong Bo had given him to Gandolf. As Gandolf read through the documents, his expression darkened.
"This… This is essentially vassalization. This is what they handed you on your first meeting?"
"Yes. That is correct. Ever since China crushed Paganda, they've been expanding their ambitions ever further. It was only a matter of time before their accursed hunger for domination came to us. As the second most powerful country in the world, your country, the Commune of Mu, is our only hope in stopping the relentless expansion of the Chinese. We've come here to ask for your aid and support, knowing the likelihood that such a request may be too tall of an order to fulfill."
Viri, Aethes, and their aides all bowed their heads in unison.
"Please rise," Gandolf said. "Regarding your request, I will have to remind you that there are things we can do for you and things we can't do for you. Still, may we inquire what you have in mind?"
From Mu's perspective, China was a great business opportunity and a potential threat to their hegemony in the Second Civilization Area. As a mechanical civilization, China imported many products from Mu. However, recently, the Chinese automobile and aviation industries had started to outcompete Mu's products. Trade Unions were demanding massive tariffs on Chinese products. After the loss of Paganda, Mu really didn't want to lose Irnetia, which provided the only surviving point of contact with the western nations outside the civilized areas that allowed them to trade with them. Their continued survival against the Chinese was nothing short of essential.
Viri took a deep breath. "There are three things we ask of you: the first is military assistance to defend ourselves when they eventually do attack, most especially your superior mechanical weapons so that we may stand a chance in a fight against them. Naturally, we will pay for them."
Gandolf nodded, as if this request was within his expectations. "And the second?"
"Our commanders have concluded that the kingdom can hold out for a year against an invasion, which means that within the next year, we request that you dispatch military reinforcements to push back the Chinese."
"In other words…" Gandolf prompted.
"We acknowledge that this must be extremely disrespectful to ask of a neutral country like yours, but we nonetheless request for a defensive military alliance with your country. Your reinforcements may not need to be ground forces—naval and air reinforcements alone would suffice. Please, I beg of you: do consider these requests of ours…"
Gandolf's expression was stern but thoughtful. The requests were substantial and fraught with complications, not least of which was Mu's longstanding policy of neutrality. Yet, the implications of Chinese expansion were clear. Still, he needed more.
"What about the third request?" Gandolf asked.
Viri hesitated, knowing how naive it might sound. "To add, this last bit is to serve as a future safeguard against invasion: we plan to call for a worldwide objection to Chinese expansionism at the Conference of the Elite Eleven that will be held next year. Powerful as they may be, it is very unlikely that they'd risk antagonizing a coalition that includes the likes of your country and the Holy Mirishial Empire. While we'd like to raise the issue ourselves, we came to the conclusion that if your country were to raise it, then not even the Holy Mirishial Empire will be able to ignore it."
Gandolf and his colleagues were visibly taken aback. The idea of a united front against Chinese aggression was bold, perhaps too bold. Conquest had always been a norm, an accepted part of the world's political landscape.
"…I see," Gandolf finally said. "I'll forward your suggestion to my superiors so that they will deliberate it; they have more power than I do. To tell you the truth, even we are getting fed up by the Chinese recent transgressions. Their arrogance is getting to a point at which we could no longer bear to ignore. Going back, your first request of the exportation of arms will be a very difficult pill for us to swallow. The maintenance of the monopoly over the secrets and possession of our technology is paramount to us as a country; the outflow of technology, even towards those we consider allies, is a touchy subject both legally and in the realm of public opinion."
Hearing Gandolf mention the word "allies" put Viri on edge. Perhaps they already see them as such…?
"Very well. I hope that a favorable decision has been reached next time we meet."
The meeting ended without further issue. Later, Mu would issue to Irnetia a reply that contained the following:
1. **Conference Advocacy:** We will ensure to the best of our abilities to raise the topic of Chinese expansionism at the Conference of the Elite Eleven, in addition to drafting a resolution that will order China to stop building more artificial islands.
2. **Military Reinforcements:** Should China invade Irnetia, we will send our naval and air forces as reinforcements within two months of the attack should the Irnetian government still exist at that moment in time. At that point, we will drop our neutral foreign policy.
3. **Arms Export:** Due to laws forbidding the sale of any and all weapons to nations outside the civilized areas, we cannot export our arms to you.
In addition, thanks to Gandolf's efforts, they were able to arrange a flight for Viri and his group to the Holy Mirishial Empire, which is usually next to impossible thanks to the shortage of aircraft.
Partially fulfilling some of the objectives of their first diplomatic excursion, the Irnetians departed Mu, bound for the Holy Mirishial Empire.
The Flight to the Holy Mirishial Empire
The six-engine aircraft provided by Mu was a testament to their technological prowess. Enormous but efficient, it cut through the skies with ease, carrying Viri and his team to their next destination.
"Do you think we achieved enough, Lord Viri?"
Viri sighed, glancing out of the window. "We got what we could under the circumstances. The Muans are not easily swayed, and their neutrality is a cornerstone of their foreign policy. But their promise of naval and air support, should it come to war, is a significant commitment."
Aethes nodded, though concern lingered in his eyes. "The refusal to sell arms is a blow, though. Our forces are not equipped to handle the Chinese onslaught with what we have now."
"True," Viri conceded, "but the diplomatic support at the Conference of the Elite Eleven could turn the tide in our favor. If we can get the Holy Mirishial Empire on our side, China might think twice about their aggression."
Aethes leaned back, deep in thought. "And what of our alliance? Do you think the Muans will stand by us in the long run?"
Viri paused, considering the question. "It's hard to say. Alliances are often born out of necessity rather than mutual affection. As long as it benefits them to oppose China, they might. But we need to show them that Irnetia is worth the effort."
The flight continued in contemplative silence, both men lost in their thoughts about the uncertain future. They knew that the road ahead was fraught with challenges, and every step would require careful calculation and diplomacy. As the plane soared, Viri briefed his team on the strategy for their upcoming negotiations.
"Our primary goal with the Holy Mirishial Empire is to secure military support and advanced weaponry," Viri explained. "We need to present a compelling case that highlights the threat posed by China and the importance of a united front against their expansion."
Aethes, ever the strategist, added, "We should emphasize Irnetia's strategic location. Our geographical position is crucial for maintaining trade routes and regional stability. They need to see that supporting us is in their best interest."
Nall, the youngest member of the delegation, chimed in, "And we must show that we are willing to stand on our own feet as much as possible. We are not just asking for help; we are asking for a partnership."
Viri nodded in agreement. "Precisely. We need to show that the Irnetian Kingdom is a worthy ally, not just a burden."